Don’t Speak Hastily
Healthy communication is not hasty (Prov 29:20). We don’t say whatever comes to our mind. Instead, we reflect on what we have heard and then answer. Answering prior to reflecting is foolish (Prov 20:25). This is true, for example of making hasty commitments (Num 30:3). Wise individuals choose their words with care (Prov 13:3). They are cautious about the content and amount of information they share (Prov 25:8). They seek to be truthful but also be considerate to not violate a confidentiality in sharing either too much or information that is too sensitive.
When we don’t think about what we are going to say, we often say too much – which usually results in our saying things that shouldn’t have been said (Prov 10:19). Thus, talking with restraint is advisable. Otherwise, we don’t have an adequate chance to speak precisely, accurately, and non-hurtfully. Someone who talks a lot, therefore, may not be the best person from whom to receive advice because there is a greater chance they will say things that lack wisdom.
Cautious speech also examines our motive in saying something because we consider the effect our words may have on the other person (Prov 15:28 cf. 16:2). For example, Jesus never said so much as one word to Herod. Why? Herod had constantly rejected warnings (Mk 6:20), showing utter unresponsiveness and contempt for any possibility that God would be speaking to him. Jesus was not going to waste His time speaking to such a person (Prov 26:4).
Instead of being timid, learn to be appropriately bold.